The BOC Blog
Stories from the Collective
We’re creating a space to share stories, reflections, and resources from The BIPOC Outdoor Collective and our partners. Here, you’ll find updates on our programs, spotlights on community members, and conversations about equity, recreation, advocacy, conservation, and education in the outdoors.
Below, read new blogs, event descriptions and wrap-ups, community member spotlights, and more!
Paddle 4 Tomorrow & the BOC Kayaking Session
The BOC partnered with Paddle 4 Tomorrow and DeKalb County Parks and Recreation to bring youth ages 8–12 from across multiple Georgia counties to Fort Yargo State Park for a day of paddling, hiking, and watercoloring. 45 children were divided into three rotating groups to learn paddling and more.
BOC at the 2026 Earth Day Festival in Guyton, GA
Showing up matters, and on Earth Day, the BOC showed up in a big way in Guyton, GA. Hosted by Effingham Going Green (EGG), the festival drew almost 1,050 visitors who enjoyed 24 interactive booths lining a shady trail, live music, green vendors, and fun, environmental activities, and more.
2026 La Amistad and BOC Campout
First impressions are everything, and the BOC wanted to make a meaningful one with the parents and students at La Amistad. On Tuesday, March 17, the BOC hosted a “first-time campers” info session at the La Amistad Community Center in Sandy Springs, GA. Our goal was to share practical information about camping.
2026 JMU Alternative Spring Break
What an incredible week of “hard heart work!” The BIPOC Outdoor Collective hosted students from James Madison University, including eight students, two student leaders, and a learning partner. It was an inspiring group whose energy and commitment made a lasting impact on our community.
Community Work Day at the BOC Retreat House
The BIPOC Outdoor Collective Retreat House will soon open its doors to residents of DeKalb County and surrounding communities. While it will serve as the primary office for the BOC and our team, the vision for the Retreat House will become a place for community, connection, and nature-based learning.
First-Time Camper Workshop: LaAmistad x the BOC
Atlanta-based organization LaAmistad and The BIPOC Outdoor Collective are proud to partner for a special First-Time Campers Workshop on March 17, 2026, designed to introduce Latino families to the joys of outdoor recreation and conservation. LaAmistad’s mission is to prepare Latinos for success through enrichment programs.
James Madison University: 2026 Alternative Spring Break
James Madison University is located in Harrisonburg, VA, so you might wonder why JMU students would travel all the way to Georgia for spring break. The answer is simple: Through one of their professors, they learned about the work our organization is doing and wanted to support however they could.
The BOC Interviewed by Charleston’s Live 5 News
The BIPOC Outdoor Collective’s founder Renee Maisonet was recently interviewed by Live 5 Voices in Charleston, SC, in the days leading up to SEWE. Talking with reporter Shelbey Roberts, Renee discusses how the BOC works to make conservation and outdoor recreation more welcoming and accessible.
Investing in Local Youth Communities
At the BIPOC Outdoor Collective, we believe meaningful community engagement goes beyond hosting an event. It means showing up with intention, investing in people, and leaving a lasting imprint. As we bring our programming to Charleston, we are committed to ensuring that our presence lifts up this community.
Community Spotlight: Chef Marcus Shell
At the heart of the unforgettable culinary experience at our Gather for Good Awards Dinner in Charleston, SC, during SEWE was the extraordinary talent of Chef Marcus Shell. Known for his creative flair and deep respect for heritage cuisine, Chef Marcus transformed the evening into more than just a meal.